How To Camp On A Budget
When the stresses of everyday life get on top of us, we all dream of getting away and disconnecting from the world and its pressures from time to time. In our opinion, one of the best ways to do so, is a camping trip, particularly the type of trip that allows you to totally switch off and make the most of tranquil surroundings. Of course, when you set off on a camping trip, it’s good to be fully prepared so that you actually return feeling rejuvenated opposed to feeling like you’ve been in a battle of survival of the fittest all weekend.
If you’re a lover of the great outdoors and weekend camping trips, you’ll probably be aware that although it’s often thought of as a budget travel option, camping can sometimes end up being pretty pricey. Thankfully, we’re on hand with our top 10 tips for camping on a budget.
1. Invest In Handy, Long-Lasting Gear And Gadgets
When it comes to camping on a budget, there are a few essentials you should most definitely invest in such as a camping tent (unless you really want to be at one with nature), long-lasting sleeping bags and a decent stove. Paying a little more from the off will pay off in the long run.
If you’re planning to head out into the wilderness rather than a campsite, other essentials you should consider purchasing include ground sheets, solar lighting and axes. You know what they say: if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail!
2. Make A List Of Inexpensive Activities To Enjoy
There are plenty of free or super cheap things to do when you’re outdoors; head off on a trek (be sure to take your map and compass), try your hand at a spot of foraging or enjoy some water sports. It can be tempting to hop in the car and head to the closest attraction, but you’ll often find there are plenty of family fun activities to be appreciated by the whole group, young or old, for little or no charge!
3. Borrow Camping Gear
Before you go out and spend a fortune on a whole load of gear of your upcoming trip, be sure to ask your friends and family if they have supplies to lend you. The cost of camping can soon add up when you consider buying essentials such as camping stoves, camping showers and an emergency radio, just to name a few! Borrowing everything you can will save you a fair amount of money before setting off, leaving extra for activities and essentials during your getaway.
4. Shop Second Hand
Once you’re armed with a good long-lasting tent and you’ve rounded up borrowed supplies, if you’re still in need of some essentials, be sure to shop second hand. It’s worth considering how many people spend a lot of money on camping gear that they use once in a blue moon meaning that you might be lucky enough to find virtually brand new products for a fraction of the price!
5. Plan Your Meals Carefully
Planning your meals out before you set off on your trip will not only reduce waste but also lighten your load; something that you will most definitely appreciate! Cooking is often a group activity when camping, so plan out easy to prepare and cook meals with minimal ingredients so that everyone can get involved! Of course, no camping trip would be complete without a BBQ and some toasted marshmallows!
6. Take Supplies From Home
Before you go splashing the cash on fancy cooking equipment, expensive chairs and plush sleeping bags, have a scout around the house and pick out the supplies you can take with you. The same goes for food if you’re not going to be home, be sure to clear out the fridge and take any snacks with you that won’t keep until your return.
7. Don’t Overspend On Consumables
We’re not trying to be kill joys and stop you from indulging a little on your camping trip… we just want to remind you to avoid overspending on food and drink you don’t really need. There’s no point overloading your luggage with luxuries you’ll end up leaving behind.
8. Choose A Free Place To Pitch Up
One of the best things about camping is that you can do it virtually anywhere; on the beach, in a field or even in the garden if you don’t fancy straying too far from home. Of course, campsites are handy with their on-site facilities and entertainment, but if you’re ready to wave goodbye to civilization, you can pitch up almost anywhere for free.
9. Stay Local
If you’re on a tight budget for your camping trip, there’s no need to venture too far from home. Sometimes, you’ll find even venturing just 30 minutes from home is enough for you to enjoy your break. That’s the beauty about the great outdoors, it doesn’t really matter where you are to appreciate the peace and quiet of a camping trip.
10. Get A Group Together
Not only are group camping trips a lot more fun, but you can split the cost of travel, essentials and activities so that your money will go further! Just be sure to save enough space in your vehicle for your equipment as well as your passengers!
To summarise, invest in long-lasting products for the essentials you really NEED to buy, be sure to borrow all that you can from friends and family, and avoid overpacking and overspending when it comes to consumables. When it comes to enjoying your trip, make the most of free and inexpensive activities and most importantly, take the time to appreciate your surroundings.
Now that you’re armed with our top 10 tips for camping on a budget, you can head off and enjoy a trip to remember. Where will you be pitching up to first?
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